Patellar Tendonitis

Sharp pain or ache just below the kneecap that occurs after activities that cause stress on the tendon. A few of these activities are jogging, climbing stairs, jumping or hill climbing.

Description

Patellar tendonitis is when the tendon and the tissues that surround it, become inflamed and irritated. This is usually due to overuse, especially from jumping activities.

Causes

Overuse is blamed as the cause of patellar tendonitis, however on examination there are usually muscle imbalances that are the underlying cause of why you get this condition and another person doesn't.

Standard treatment

Avoidance of activities that aggravate the problem is the first step. Anti-inflammatory medications are used. Stretching exercises are usually given.

AK Approach

The patellar tendon can be injured by either immediate direct trauma or by repeated micro trauma. If the injury occurred from a single trauma, the examination is directed immediately to the severity of the injury and is surgery indicated. Otherwise, the examination is more general as to the total functioning of the lower extremity. As the knee can be adversely affected by problems in the ankle and foot or the pelvis above it, the examination begins by looking for factors in these areas that would adversely affect knee stability. Locally, the stability of the major ligaments of the knee is then tested for. The muscles that support the knee are evaluated to find the ones that are malfunctioning. These are corrected and then tested for the need of corrective exercises. The attention is then shifted to the localized structures that are injured and failing to support the knee joint properly. These can include specialized treatments for ligaments, muscles, skin and joints. Finally, attention is directed to corrective procedures that can help coordinate the muscles to help prevent future injuries. Nutritional therapies aimed at increasing factors that would speed healing and reduce any inflammation are considered.

Other lifestyle modifications are used to prevent or minimize exacerbating the condition. A specific program for your needs is created.